Planning on making the most of the coming months with a new hot tub for your garden? Whether you are looking for a relaxing spa-experience at home, or a space to enjoy evenings with friends, having the perfect hot tub installed is not just about picking any model. It involves careful planning and consideration of various key factors, from understanding different types of hot tubs and their features, to considering the servicing requirements and maintenance costs. So, make sure that you make the right investment when you buy a hot tub with this guide to selecting the best hot tub for your needs.
Location
First things first – consider the location for your hot tub. Choosing the right spot will maximise the enjoyment it gives you and your guests, and ideally it should be accessible from your home to ensure your privacy and reduce the amount of time spent in the open. This close proximity to your home will also allow you to access the electrical and water systems that you need once the hot tub has been installed, which will also make it much easier to maintain and service.
You’ll also need a solid, level foundation to support the weight of your hot tub – especially when filled with water and users – like a concrete pad or reinforced deck, which will need to be installed before the tub arrives. Finally, when making any necessary changes to your garden, consider how your current garden layout may affect your enjoyment and the exposure to the elements that you face – and consider placing your new hot tub under a cover or structure to protect it from the weather and reduce cleaning costs.
Size & Seating
Size and seating capacity are important considerations that depend upon your available space and how you plan to use it. If you regularly entertain loved ones, or you have a larger family, then a larger model with multiple seating areas, including lounger seats, is ideal, and for smaller spaces or intimate events, a compact model is perfect.
Consider the layout and ergonomics of the seating, making sure that those with access difficulties are able to safely enter and exit the hot tub, and make sure that the seats are deep and supportive enough to keep your guests comfortable for extended periods of time – and as a final note, bear in mind that larger tubs require more water, which can affect ongoing maintenance costs.
Type of Hot Tub
Choosing the right type of hot tub involves understanding the different options available and how they align with your lifestyle and requirements, including:
- Traditional acrylic models that offer durability and a wide range of features like customizable jets and lighting.
- Inflatable tubs that provide a cost-effective, portable alternative, suitable for occasional use and limited spaces.
- Advanced options like swim spas, which combine the relaxation of a tub with the exercise capabilities of a swimming pool, are ideal for fitness enthusiasts.
Unsure which one is the best choice for you? Continue reading to explore the different features, benefits, and requirements of these tubs.
Hydrotherapy Features
Jets and hydrotherapy features offer a therapeutic and rejuvenating spa-like experience, tailored to your comfort and health requirements. If these features are non-negotiable for you, then assess the placement of the jets and how many there are when viewing tubs, as these features influence the massage quality and target different body areas.
You should also look for adjustable jets that offer control over water flow and direction, as these suit various therapeutic needs, and hydrotherapy features like whirlpool or air bubble jets help enhance relaxation and muscle relief. Additionally, consider hot tub models with advanced options like customisable hydro-massage programs and ergonomic seats that enhance the therapeutic benefits and can be tailored to your requirements.
Heating and Energy
The energy consumption and heating requirements of the system significantly impact the running costs and environmental footprint of your hot tub, so if you would be unable to justify the high ongoing costs, opt for models with high-quality insulation and energy-efficient heaters to minimise heat loss and reduce electricity usage.
Choosing an energy-efficient hot tub lowers utility bills and creates a more sustainable spa experience, so look for energy-efficient pumps and LED lighting to lower operating costs and for hot tubs with covers that provide excellent thermal retention. Some models also come with eco-friendly features like solar heating options or automatic temperature control systems that maintain optimal heat levels efficiently, so be sure to have a shop around and find the best systems for your needs and budget.
Additional Features
If you could add any features to your hot tub, what would they be? Considering the optional, or extra, features offered by the manufacturer when buying, including:
- Features like built-in audio systems, LED lighting, and waterfalls to create a relaxing and calming ambiance.
- Advanced filtration systems or sanitisers to reduce maintenance time and chemical usage.
- Smart technology, such as smarttub integration, allowing remote control of settings via smartphone apps.
While these customisable features will most likely add to the upfront cost, they offer long-term enjoyment and convenience, making your hot tub a true backyard retreat and personalising every experience.
Maintenance
Like all large systems, hot tubs need to be regularly maintained to ensure good hygiene standards, the longevity of the spa, and the quality of your experiences. Regular tasks like water testing, chemical balancing, and periodic draining and cleaning are essential to keep the water safe and clear, and make sure that you regularly stock up your supplies of replacement filters, chemicals, and other maintenance products.
If you are looking to reduce the amount of maintenance needed to keep your hot tub in optimal condition, look to buy a hot tub with easy-to-clean surfaces and efficient filtration systems to minimise upkeep, and bear in mind that all hot tubs will require a certain level of effort to maintain.
Warranty
When buying a hot tub, consider the warranty and servicing requirements carefully, as they can significantly impact long-term satisfaction and cost. A comprehensive warranty should cover the shell and components, and is intended to offer peace of mind and protect you against unexpected repair expenses.
When choosing a hot tub, check the length and inclusiveness of the warranty, and make sure that you understand what is and isn’t covered. During this process, it is also recommended that you check the manufacturer’s reputation and the availability of authorised service technicians in your area before making a purchase.
New or Ex Display
When deciding between new or ex-display hot tubs, consider both the cost savings and potential downsides of both options. New tubs come with the latest features, full warranties, and no wear and tear, offering long-term reliability and peace of mind, whilst ex-display models may have minor cosmetic damage and shorter warranties compared to other models – but offer significant discounts.
Evaluate the condition thoroughly when assessing ex display hot tubs and confirm that any ex-display model still meets your expectations in terms of features and quality – and be sure to ask about warranty coverage to secure a tub that meets your needs with substantial savings.
Ready to Buy a Hot Tub?
When you buy a hot tub, you are making an investment in your social life, your leisure time, and even in your physical wellness, thanks to the lifestyle enhancing benefits of these exciting systems.
With careful consideration of these key factors, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget, so if you are ready to explore a range of tubs and talk to an expert team about your requirements, contact All Weather Leisure today – a leading supplier of hot tubs and swim spas.